RFK Jr.’s Autism Registry Sparks Outrage and Privacy Concerns

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is under fire again—this time for launching a national autism registry that has stirred serious privacy and ethical concerns. The move follows his widely criticized statements referring to autism as a “preventable disease” that “destroys families,” prompting backlash from advocates and the scientific community alike.

Kennedy, who has long peddled discredited theories about vaccines and autism, recently brought on board a controversial researcher known for promoting debunked claims linking vaccinations to autism. This has further intensified skepticism over his intentions behind tracking Americans with autism in a centralized registry.

CBS News reports that up to 20 outside research groups will be granted access to this sensitive data to conduct studies under Kennedy’s initiative. Critics warn the registry could become a vehicle for spreading misinformation or pushing harmful policies under the guise of health research.

Meanwhile, multiple organizations have raised alarms about data security and the ethical implications of handing over medical information to a government official who has expressed such dismissive views about the autistic community.